One of the most popular ways to use persimmons in baking is to make James Beard persimmon bread, a recipe that has been beloved by home cooks and professional bakers alike for decades. In this blog, I will share with you a James Beard Persimmon Bread Recipe that is extremely delicious. Persimmons are a unique and flavorful fruit that is often overlooked in the world of fall baking.
But for those who are in the know, persimmon bread is a beloved treat that signals the start of the season. This moist and delicious bread has a rich history and a distinctive taste that is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
As the leaves change color and the temperatures start to drop, there’s nothing quite like the comforting smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. While many people reach for traditional fall flavors like pumpkin and cinnamon, there’s another ingredient that deserves some attention: persimmons.
This sweet and spicy fruit has a unique flavor that lends itself perfectly to fall baking, and one of the most popular recipes to use persimmons is James Beard persimmon bread.
How To Make James Beard Persimmon Bread
There are many reasons why James Beard persimmon bread is such a beloved fall treat. For one, it’s a unique and unexpected flavor that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. The combination of sweet, spicy, and slightly tart flavors is truly one-of-a-kind. Additionally, persimmons are only in season for a short time each year, so making persimmon bread is a special way to celebrate the arrival of fall.
Finally, the moist and tender texture of the bread makes it a perfect comfort food on a chilly autumn day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and delight everyone who tries it. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
FAQs:
Q: What is a persimmon, and how do I know when it’s ripe?
A: A persimmon is a sweet fruit that is similar in texture to a tomato. When it’s ripe, a persimmon will be soft and slightly squishy to the touch. You can also tell if a persimmon is ripe by looking at the color; a ripe persimmon will be a deep orange or red color.
Q: Can I use canned persimmon pulp instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use canned persimmon pulp in this recipe if fresh persimmons are not available. Just make sure to drain the pulp before using it in the recipe.
Q: Can I freeze persimmon bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze persimmon bread for up to three months. Just wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Ingredients To Make James Beard Persimmon Bread
- all-purpose flour 3½ cups
- salt 1½ teaspoons
- baking soda 2 teaspoons
- ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon
- sugar 2½ cups
- melted unsalted butter 1 cup
- eggs 4 large
- cognac ⅔ cup
- 2 cups persimmon puree
- 1 cup finely diced persimmon from
- 2 Fuyu persimmons
- chopped pecans 2 cups
- raisins 1 cups
Step By Step Instructions To Make James Beard Persimmon Bread
Step1
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease two loaf pans with butter. Line the bottoms of the pans with parchment paper for added convenience.
Step2
In a large mixing bowl, sift the first five dry ingredients together using a large mesh strainer, ensuring even distribution.
Step3
For the wet ingredients, combine the butter, eggs, brandy, pureed persimmons, and diced persimmons. For the dry ingredients, mix in the nuts and dried fruit.
Step4
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans and bake at 350°F for approximately one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Note that baking times may vary depending on the oven.
Step5
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool for five minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack. For added flavor, serve the persimmon cakes warm with butter, if desired.
Tips And Tricks:
- Use ripe persimmons for optimal flavor and moisture.
- Measure ingredients accurately for best results.
- Sift dry ingredients for even distribution.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.
- Don’t over-mix the batter to avoid tough bread.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removing the bread from the pan easier.
- Check for doneness using a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread.
- Allow the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Serve warm with butter for added flavor.
More Amazing Recipes
- Fanny Farmer Banana Bread Recipe
- Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Shortnin Bread Recipe
- Ina Garten Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Conclusions
In conclusion, James Beard persimmon bread is a beloved fall treat that is perfect for celebrating the arrival of the season. This unique and delicious bread is moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a perfect comfort food on a chilly autumn day. With the right ingredients and a few simple tips and tricks, anyone can create this delicious treat in their own kitchen. So why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with this one-of-a-kind fall treat?
James Beard Persimmon Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2½ cups sugar
- 1 cup melted unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- ⅔ cup cognac
- 2 cups persimmon puree
- 1 cup finely diced persimmon from
- 2 Fuyu persimmons
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cups raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease two loaf pans with butter. Line the bottoms of the pans with parchment paper for added convenience.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift the first five dry ingredients together using a large mesh strainer, ensuring even distribution.
- For the wet ingredients, combine the butter, eggs, brandy, pureed persimmons, and diced persimmons. For the dry ingredients, mix in the nuts and dried fruit.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans and bake at 350°F for approximately one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Note that baking times may vary depending on the oven.
- Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool for five minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack. For added flavor, serve the persimmon cakes warm with butter, if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe persimmons for optimal flavor and moisture.
- Measure ingredients accurately for best results.
- Sift dry ingredients for even distribution.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.
- Don’t over-mix the batter to avoid tough bread.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removing the bread from the pan easier.
- Check for doneness using a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread.
- Allow the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Serve warm with butter for added flavor.
